ITALY: Rome by Night

Rome is so pretty by night. 

The city does a great job of lighting up their beautiful buildings, statues and monuments.

This is the Piazza Navona at twilight. There are three fountains and it is one of the largest squares in Rome.

 

The Parthenon is one of my favourite places in Rome. From the outside it doesn't look too impressive (in a city of impressive looking things), but inside it is gorgeous. And lit up by night I think looks beautiful. 

 

 

The infamous Trevi Fountain, where rumor has it, that if you throw a coin in it you'll come back to Rome. Apparently it is not just any random way to throw it over your shoulder, it has to be a certain way, from your right hand over your left shoulder. (Or was that the other way around?) And you have to keep your back to the fountain. 

 

 

I was also told if you throw 2 coins over your shoulder you'll fall in love in Rome. And if you throw 3 coins over your shoulder you'll get married. Great "money grab". 

Apparently 3,000 coins are thrown in daily. Over US$1.5M is collected each year and go to Catholic charities to help the poor and homeless. 

 

 

The Victor Emanuel II Monument, new by Roman standards, was built in 1885 - 1911. It serves to honour the first King of a unified Italy. There is an elevator you can take to the roof and it gives awesome views of the city.

 

 

We were told it is not too popular with Romans, and has two nicknames. It is called either The Typewriter or Wedding Cake building. 

 

 

 

The Colosseum is very pretty by night light. It is in the centre of Rome and is the largest ancient amphitheater every build and is the largest standing amphitheater ever built. (It's ok if you need to think about that for a moment.)

The main purpose of the Colosseum (inaugurated in 80AD) was to increase the popularity of the emperor. It was used to entertain the people with gladiator battles, animal fights and executions. 

Different times and different tastes.

The Roman Arch by the Coliseum. 

This is a pretty hotel that caught my eye. 

With stunning night views like this it should be easy to fall asleep and have sweet dreams.